ComfortDelGro Begins First Robotaxi Trial in China with Pony.ai

ComfortDelGro has launched its first robotaxi pilot programme in Guangzhou, China, marking a significant step in its efforts to develop autonomous vehicle technology. The Singapore-based transport operator is conducting the two-year pilot in collaboration with Pony.ai, a company specializing in self-driving technology. This initiative aligns with Pony.ai’s broader efforts to expand its autonomous taxi operations, including its recently launched robotaxi service in Guangzhou’s city center. The programme aims to refine autonomous vehicle operations and fleet management, paving the way for large-scale deployment in China and other international markets.

The pilot programme will initially operate a small fleet of Lexus RX450 vehicles, with additional models introduced later. While the financial details of the project remain undisclosed, ComfortDelGro has emphasized that this initiative aligns with its broader strategy of exploring autonomous transport solutions. In 2022, the company established the Autonomous Vehicle Centre of Excellence, investing S$30 million (US$22.5 million) to advance expertise in autonomous vehicle operations.

ComfortDelGro’s managing director and group CEO, Cheng Siak Kian, highlighted the importance of autonomous technology in addressing workforce shortages and improving transport efficiency.

Cheng Siak Kian stated:

"With continuing driver shortages a global issue, we are exploring innovative solutions to ensure mobility remains accessible and efficient. Autonomous technology can complement the human driver workforce by increasing ride availability during off-peak hours and in underserved areas."

Pony.ai’s chief financial officer, Leo Wang, emphasized the mutual benefits of the collaboration, acknowledging ComfortDelGro’s extensive experience in fleet management.

Leo Wang stated:

"To achieve large-scale deployment, we need strong partners to support our global expansion. I am impressed by ComfortDelGro’s years of expertise in large-scale fleet management and believe both teams will learn fast and well from each other through this fruitful collaboration."

”The pilot programme marks a significant step in the commercial deployment of robotaxi services for both companies.”

As companies worldwide explore autonomous transport solutions, this initiative highlights a growing shift toward self-driving technology as a long-term mobility solution.